King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 4:2 Mean?

“And he spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What do these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish which are burned? fortify: Heb. leave to themselves”

Context

But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews.

And he spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What do these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish which are burned? fortify: Heb. leave to themselves

Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they build, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone wall.

Hear, O our God; for we are despised: and turn their reproach upon their own head, and give them for a prey in the land of captivity: despised: Heb. despite

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(2) **His brethren and the army of Samaria.**—The counsellors and body-guard of Sanballat. **Will they fortify themselves?**—Rather, *will they leave them to themselves?* The nations are referred to; but contempt is not scrupulous or precise. **Will they sacrifice?**—This is the provocation of God mentioned in Nehemiah 4:5.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Nehemiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Nehemiah 4:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.